Saturday, May 9, 2009
Publications List
Reviews
The King of Pearl (Independent Professional Book Reviewers, 2009)
Fitheads Fit Kit (Independent Professional Book Reviewers, 2009)
A Disappointing Truth: The Tragic Story of Sarah Witt (Independent Professional Book Reviewers, 2008)
Joshua Greyman (Independent Professional Book Reviewers, 2008)
Loca(Independent Professional Book Reviewers, 2007)
Finnegan’s Parish & Other Stories (ForeWord Magazine, 2006)
End of Life Care Issues Book and CD (ForeWord Magazine, 2006)
My Favorite Mistake (MidWest Book Review, 2005)
City Rats (MidWest Book Review, 2004)
Articles
Today’s Black Single Mother: Successful Examples of Single Parenting (AssociatedContent, 2008)
Pennsylvania Woman Fights Clostridium Difficile, a Superbug (Associated Content, 2008)
Goddess Worship (Skirt Magazine, 2007)
Web content
Guide to Rainforests (Work.com, 2008, http://www.work.com/rainforests-18180/)
Guide to Ethics of Euthanasia (Work.com, 2008, http://www.work.com/ethics-of-euthanasia-19759/)
Guide to Microcredit (Work.com, 2008, http://www.work.com/microcredit-19997/)
Anthology
Not Tonight (Missionary No More: Purple Panties 2 edited by Zane, 2009)
Sunday, April 26, 2009
Writing Sample: Website
When All the Women Are Gone
Note: This website is the storyboard for the visual content of my master's thesis.
Women of all races and nationalities are faced, daily, with the threat of violence by a partner, a family member, or a complete stranger. It is the unfortunate plight of all women. Because all women are at risk, it is important to study the impact that violence has globally so that the international community can develop solutions that will rescue women from this constant threat.
When All the Women Are Gone is a white paper that discusses a range of violent actions that women endure all over the globe. The title suggests the most sever, yet, possible outcome for women if this epidemic of violence is not halted.
View the site: When All the Women Are Gone
Note: This website is the storyboard for the visual content of my master's thesis.
Women of all races and nationalities are faced, daily, with the threat of violence by a partner, a family member, or a complete stranger. It is the unfortunate plight of all women. Because all women are at risk, it is important to study the impact that violence has globally so that the international community can develop solutions that will rescue women from this constant threat.
When All the Women Are Gone is a white paper that discusses a range of violent actions that women endure all over the globe. The title suggests the most sever, yet, possible outcome for women if this epidemic of violence is not halted.
View the site: When All the Women Are Gone
Writing Sample: Report
Contracting an Information Services Agency to Develop, Implement and Maintain a Records Management Program
INTRODUCTION
Background
Why Build a Records Management Program
Changes in federal laws concerning the retention of business records has put a spotlight on the need for developing policies to manage this area of an enterprise. The increase in litigation has also contributed to this need. Many companies rely on sparsely formed records policies and loose delegation of records responsibilities to a variety of staff members. This methodology often proves to be faulty because job descriptions are not revised to include records management duties and so employees can easily deny accountability when problems arise. When faced with litigation and compliance with federal regulations such as the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, a company’s failure to have staff dedicated to managing its records can lead to serious legal troubles.
A records information management program will rectify problems posed by litigation and non-compliance with federal and local laws regarding records retention. Developing an in-house records management program will involve recruitment and training and the added expense of dealing with turnover rates. Contracting a company that specializes in records management design, development, and implementation will lower costs, save time, and insure the availability of trained professionals to maintain company records.
Problem
Failed Corporate Recordkeeping
There have always been state and federal rules regarding the retention and destruction of records produced by businesses. However, the inappropriate destruction of records by infamous companies such as ENRON Corporation and its accounting firm, Arthur Andersen, resulted in a stricter federal law being passed to dissuade such behavior in the future. Today, companies that fail to implement a records management program may be in violation of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. Sarbanes-Oxley ushered in new records retention regulations and added penalties more severe than former records specific laws. “Under the Sarbanes-Oxley Act, the government can bring charges of obstruction of justice if a company destroys potentially relevant records before a subpoena is issued. Violations are punishable by a fine and up to 20 years in prison” (ARMA International, 2008, p. 4).
In addition to assuring compliance with federal regulations, a records management program will protect an organization in the event of litigation. This becomes an even greater point to focus on when electronic records are considered. E-mail, voice and text messages are all considered company records, but this is not often made clear by a company’s senior management. According to HR Focus (2008) only “…21% of organizations [have] given employees a formal definition of “electronic business records.” Since, as the article emphasizes, all records produced by a business can be subpoenaed, it is crucial that all members of an organization clearly understand how records should be managed and eventually destroyed. A solid records management program can make this happen.
Purpose
Program Recommendations
The purpose of this report is two-fold: to recommend the development of a records management program and to argue that the program should be established and run by an outside information services agency as opposed to in-house staff. A records management program will keep the company compliant with state and federal regulations. If the program is contracted out, there will be the added benefit of achieving the goals of a records management program without the costs associated with recruitment, hiring, training new, permanent employees.
Read the entire report: Contracting an Information Services Agency
INTRODUCTION
Background
Why Build a Records Management Program
Changes in federal laws concerning the retention of business records has put a spotlight on the need for developing policies to manage this area of an enterprise. The increase in litigation has also contributed to this need. Many companies rely on sparsely formed records policies and loose delegation of records responsibilities to a variety of staff members. This methodology often proves to be faulty because job descriptions are not revised to include records management duties and so employees can easily deny accountability when problems arise. When faced with litigation and compliance with federal regulations such as the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, a company’s failure to have staff dedicated to managing its records can lead to serious legal troubles.
A records information management program will rectify problems posed by litigation and non-compliance with federal and local laws regarding records retention. Developing an in-house records management program will involve recruitment and training and the added expense of dealing with turnover rates. Contracting a company that specializes in records management design, development, and implementation will lower costs, save time, and insure the availability of trained professionals to maintain company records.
Problem
Failed Corporate Recordkeeping
There have always been state and federal rules regarding the retention and destruction of records produced by businesses. However, the inappropriate destruction of records by infamous companies such as ENRON Corporation and its accounting firm, Arthur Andersen, resulted in a stricter federal law being passed to dissuade such behavior in the future. Today, companies that fail to implement a records management program may be in violation of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. Sarbanes-Oxley ushered in new records retention regulations and added penalties more severe than former records specific laws. “Under the Sarbanes-Oxley Act, the government can bring charges of obstruction of justice if a company destroys potentially relevant records before a subpoena is issued. Violations are punishable by a fine and up to 20 years in prison” (ARMA International, 2008, p. 4).
In addition to assuring compliance with federal regulations, a records management program will protect an organization in the event of litigation. This becomes an even greater point to focus on when electronic records are considered. E-mail, voice and text messages are all considered company records, but this is not often made clear by a company’s senior management. According to HR Focus (2008) only “…21% of organizations [have] given employees a formal definition of “electronic business records.” Since, as the article emphasizes, all records produced by a business can be subpoenaed, it is crucial that all members of an organization clearly understand how records should be managed and eventually destroyed. A solid records management program can make this happen.
Purpose
Program Recommendations
The purpose of this report is two-fold: to recommend the development of a records management program and to argue that the program should be established and run by an outside information services agency as opposed to in-house staff. A records management program will keep the company compliant with state and federal regulations. If the program is contracted out, there will be the added benefit of achieving the goals of a records management program without the costs associated with recruitment, hiring, training new, permanent employees.
Read the entire report: Contracting an Information Services Agency
Writing Sample: Funding Proposal
Hue Magazine
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
In 2008, positive images of women of color continue to be illusive in the media. Hue Magazine is a new publication that will respond to this imbalance in the representation of thousands of minority women. We are requesting $500,000 in start-up capital from the New York Angels to launch the publication.
Hue will address the concerns of lower to middle income minority women seeking their own images and information about money, family, education, fashion and beauty that fits within the parameters of their lifestyles. The magazine’s office is located in New York City and will be run by the founder, three equity partners, and supporting staff. The magazine is in early production. We are currently recruiting freelance writers and “real women” models for the January 2009 launch.
We hope to meet the following objectives with this publication:
a. To present positive images of women of color.
b. To provide women of color resources on issues that directly impact their lives.
c. To inform women of color about domestic and global issues that affect their communities.
The funds requested will augment previously secured funds for the development, production, and national distribution of the magazine. Future funding has been committed by long-term investment partners. Hue Magazine is also in the process of negotiating reoccurring advertising contracts with major corporations and retailers, which will sustain our product past the projected five year start-up period.
STATEMENT OF NEED
Hue Magazine will celebrate women of color by using real women as models and focusing on the issues that directly affect this demographic including childcare, education, employment, relationships, fashion and beauty, and money. We request financing in the amount of $500,000 to cover expenses associated with start-up, design and production, circulation and distribution.
Historically, women of color (including African American, Hispanic and Asian American, and other groups) have been absent from or misrepresented in print magazines. The standard of beauty offered to women’s magazine readers does not often focus on the attributes of women of color. With 83 percent of the adult African American population and 75 percent of the adult Hispanic population representing magazine readers, presenting images of white runway models as the example of womanhood to strive for is not realistic, nor desirable to the minority community. In addition, many of the women’s magazines on newsstands cater to the higher income members of our population. And even when minority women are showcased, such as in Essence, Latina, and East West magazines, celebrities and not the common woman are usually featured. Hue Magazine will educate and inform women of color about what is happening in their own communities and in the world, while also celebrating the beauty of women that comes in multiple shades.
Read the entire roposal: Hue Magazine
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
In 2008, positive images of women of color continue to be illusive in the media. Hue Magazine is a new publication that will respond to this imbalance in the representation of thousands of minority women. We are requesting $500,000 in start-up capital from the New York Angels to launch the publication.
Hue will address the concerns of lower to middle income minority women seeking their own images and information about money, family, education, fashion and beauty that fits within the parameters of their lifestyles. The magazine’s office is located in New York City and will be run by the founder, three equity partners, and supporting staff. The magazine is in early production. We are currently recruiting freelance writers and “real women” models for the January 2009 launch.
We hope to meet the following objectives with this publication:
a. To present positive images of women of color.
b. To provide women of color resources on issues that directly impact their lives.
c. To inform women of color about domestic and global issues that affect their communities.
The funds requested will augment previously secured funds for the development, production, and national distribution of the magazine. Future funding has been committed by long-term investment partners. Hue Magazine is also in the process of negotiating reoccurring advertising contracts with major corporations and retailers, which will sustain our product past the projected five year start-up period.
STATEMENT OF NEED
Hue Magazine will celebrate women of color by using real women as models and focusing on the issues that directly affect this demographic including childcare, education, employment, relationships, fashion and beauty, and money. We request financing in the amount of $500,000 to cover expenses associated with start-up, design and production, circulation and distribution.
Historically, women of color (including African American, Hispanic and Asian American, and other groups) have been absent from or misrepresented in print magazines. The standard of beauty offered to women’s magazine readers does not often focus on the attributes of women of color. With 83 percent of the adult African American population and 75 percent of the adult Hispanic population representing magazine readers, presenting images of white runway models as the example of womanhood to strive for is not realistic, nor desirable to the minority community. In addition, many of the women’s magazines on newsstands cater to the higher income members of our population. And even when minority women are showcased, such as in Essence, Latina, and East West magazines, celebrities and not the common woman are usually featured. Hue Magazine will educate and inform women of color about what is happening in their own communities and in the world, while also celebrating the beauty of women that comes in multiple shades.
Read the entire roposal: Hue Magazine
Writing Sample: Speech
Freedom for Survivors of Domestic Violence
As warriors in the war against domestic violence we have all been privy to stories of survivors. Stories that have driven every social worker, court advocate, shelter worker, and call center volunteer present tonight to fight harder for victims of intimate partner abuse. Stories like that of the Chelsea, Massachusetts woman who was unable to complete college courses because her abusive husband controlled her time and her access to transportation and money. Or the Yemeni-American woman from Chicago who was beaten by her husband during three pregnancies, but was encouraged to be “obedient” by her father. And the military wife from Texas who was choked by her husband, an Iraq War Veteran, on Christmas day.
These women all suffered from on-going abuse. Each of them lacked significant education and were rendered financially dependent by their situations. Equipping survivors of domestic violence with educational opportunities and sources of funding helps them to gain the independence that will lead to the end of their abusive relationships.
According to the Interfaith Domestic Violence Coalition, one in four women will become a victim of domestic violence. Women with deficiencies in education and limited financial resources are more vulnerable to abuse. As advocates of survivors, we are charged with providing tools that will enable victims to start new lives without falling into abusive relationships ever again. Education and financial independence can end the cycle of domestic violence.
Read the entire speech: Freedom for Survivors of Domestic Violence
As warriors in the war against domestic violence we have all been privy to stories of survivors. Stories that have driven every social worker, court advocate, shelter worker, and call center volunteer present tonight to fight harder for victims of intimate partner abuse. Stories like that of the Chelsea, Massachusetts woman who was unable to complete college courses because her abusive husband controlled her time and her access to transportation and money. Or the Yemeni-American woman from Chicago who was beaten by her husband during three pregnancies, but was encouraged to be “obedient” by her father. And the military wife from Texas who was choked by her husband, an Iraq War Veteran, on Christmas day.
These women all suffered from on-going abuse. Each of them lacked significant education and were rendered financially dependent by their situations. Equipping survivors of domestic violence with educational opportunities and sources of funding helps them to gain the independence that will lead to the end of their abusive relationships.
According to the Interfaith Domestic Violence Coalition, one in four women will become a victim of domestic violence. Women with deficiencies in education and limited financial resources are more vulnerable to abuse. As advocates of survivors, we are charged with providing tools that will enable victims to start new lives without falling into abusive relationships ever again. Education and financial independence can end the cycle of domestic violence.
Read the entire speech: Freedom for Survivors of Domestic Violence
Monday, January 19, 2009
Writing Sample: Article
Alternative Treatment of Insomnia in Perimenopausal Women
October 2008
Can a non-pharmaceutical, minimally invasive treatment help women get a good night sleep? If so, why are so few scientists studying it?
If you are in your mid-thirties and perimenopausal, insomnia is probably proving to be a greater tyrant than intermittent hot flashes, mood swings, and the hourly cycling of hormones. The absence of recuperative sleep can be traumatic. Insomnia negatively impacts a person’s effectiveness at work, limits the ability to focus, and interferes family relationships. According to an article on insomnia appearing in the Archives of Internal Medicine in June 2006 by Dr. Maurice M. Ohayon, women are not only increasingly affected by insomnia as they age, but their lives are altered by this condition.
Treatment for insomnia often calls for medication (either over-the-counter or prescription) or lifestyle changes (avoiding alcohol and caffeine, regular exercise, and a nocturnal routine). One option that has not been widely studied, but shows promise of being effective, is acupuncture. Paired with conventional medicine and self-care techniques, acupuncture offers women experiencing symptoms of hormonal change before entering menopause an option for regaining productive sleep with minimal or no side-effects.
Lisa White, L.Ac. is a licensed acupuncturist who works with Natural Health Solutions, a Roswell, Georgia clinic that offers alternative medical services such as chiropractic, herbal medicine, and homeopathy in addition to acupuncture. White stated that her area of practice has an immediate impact on the problem of sleeplessness. “Most patients report improved sleep after the first visit,” she offered.
In addition to treating pain and allergy symptoms, White’s practice focuses on women’s health issues including gynecological concerns. Perimenopause is one of the conditions that falls under the acupunturist’s specialty. The symptoms of perimenopause mirror those of full-blown menopause (anxiety, depression, sleep disturbance, hot flashes, irregular menstrual cycles, changes in vaginal lubrication and elasticity), but occur in women in their forties and as well as some in their early to mid-thirties. While all of the symptoms that make up perimenopause can be irritating and inconvenient (picture being in bumper to bumper traffic when accosted by a raging hot flash), chronic insomnia has the potential to increase days missed at work and harm a woman’s ability to manage a busy home life.
According to White, “acupuncture treatment would be based on the individual’s patterns that are the reasons for the insomnia. “ White’s approach to treating the perimenopausal woman falls in line with her “head-to-toe” holistic approach. “Not all people have insomnia for the same reason, therefore, treatment is specific.” This suggests that not every perimenopausal woman is dealing with insomnia that has a hormonal base. A comprehensive evaluation makes it easier to pinpoint the cause of sleeplessness. Acupuncture, in turn, should make the disorder easier to eliminate.
The specific benefit that acupuncture provides to patients suffering from insomnia or any condition, while affirmed by practitioners like White, is not very clear to other medical professionals. A study on the use of acupuncture to treat insomnia in pregnant women appeared in Acupuncture in Medicine in 2005. While the results of the study showed that insomnia decreased by 50% in nine of the 17 women in the study group, the authors admit that few studies have been conducted on the effectiveness of acupuncture on insomnia.
The deficient research in the area of acupuncture in general is lagging behind the actual practice of this treatment. In a 2002 National Survey, 8.2 million adults in the United States admitted to undergoing acupuncture.
When asked why there are so few studies centered on her specialty, White is curt: “There is no money to be made by anyone in particular.”
Many of the acupuncture studies accessed for this article focused on patients in other countries such as Australia, Korea, and especially China. Studies on acupuncture, insomnia, and perimenopausal women were even harder to find. In some articles, the effect of acupuncture is buried under statistics about hot flashes and other symptoms associated with menopause. Maybe perimenopausal studies are as unprofitable as acupuncture research.
Ohayon’s article in the Archives of Internal Medicine discussed the association between hot flashes and insomnia. The study found that 81.3% of the women participants who reported severe hot flashes also complained of sleep disturbance (problems initiating and maintaining sleep; not feeling rested after awakening). These results paired with those of an unpublished case featured in a 2007 article in the BMC Contemporary and Alternative Medicine Journal in which acupuncture is credited for the reduction of hot flashes by 77% suggests a correlation between this alternative medicine and insomnia-suffering women experiencing symptoms of hormonal changes.
An article that directly examined the effectiveness of acupuncture in the treatment of insomnia appeared in Medical Acupuncture in 2002. The article cited a study showing that “100% of patients treated for insomnia [with acupuncture] obtained benefit without reoccurrence within 18 months of follow-up.”
While there is some evidence that acupuncture can positively impact sleep disorders, the American Academy of Sleep Medicine has reported that 25% of people suffering from insomnia use over-the-counter medications. These medications may be used several times a week. Other forms of self-medication for insomnia include herbal supplements such as melatonin and valerian. Prescription drugs range from barbiturates to antidepressants. There is the possibility of negative side effects in the use of any of these substances, including daytime drowsiness.
Side effects make the use of pharmaceuticals a less than attractive approach to coping with insomnia. With the trend towards organic foods and natural products, the modern perimenopausal woman may seek an alternative that will ease her symptoms and promote her general health.
When asked, White whimsically listed the “side effects” associated with acupuncture. “Feelings of well being, more energy, less pain, regular menstrual cycles, improved sleep.” Playfully she added, “Oh, you mean adverse side effects? Usually none.”
White does admit that some people may bruise from the needles, but they won’t have to drag themselves into work the day after an acupuncture treatment.
Limited research aside, the woman searching for relief from many of her perimenopausal symptoms including insomnia could benefit from the services of a licensed practitioner. White suggests choosing an acupuncturist who is also commissioned by the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM).
White’s last tip supports patient research by encouraging those seeking acupuncture treatment to make sure the potential practitioner “[has] some experience treating the problems the prospective patient is having.”
October 2008
Can a non-pharmaceutical, minimally invasive treatment help women get a good night sleep? If so, why are so few scientists studying it?
If you are in your mid-thirties and perimenopausal, insomnia is probably proving to be a greater tyrant than intermittent hot flashes, mood swings, and the hourly cycling of hormones. The absence of recuperative sleep can be traumatic. Insomnia negatively impacts a person’s effectiveness at work, limits the ability to focus, and interferes family relationships. According to an article on insomnia appearing in the Archives of Internal Medicine in June 2006 by Dr. Maurice M. Ohayon, women are not only increasingly affected by insomnia as they age, but their lives are altered by this condition.
Treatment for insomnia often calls for medication (either over-the-counter or prescription) or lifestyle changes (avoiding alcohol and caffeine, regular exercise, and a nocturnal routine). One option that has not been widely studied, but shows promise of being effective, is acupuncture. Paired with conventional medicine and self-care techniques, acupuncture offers women experiencing symptoms of hormonal change before entering menopause an option for regaining productive sleep with minimal or no side-effects.
Lisa White, L.Ac. is a licensed acupuncturist who works with Natural Health Solutions, a Roswell, Georgia clinic that offers alternative medical services such as chiropractic, herbal medicine, and homeopathy in addition to acupuncture. White stated that her area of practice has an immediate impact on the problem of sleeplessness. “Most patients report improved sleep after the first visit,” she offered.
In addition to treating pain and allergy symptoms, White’s practice focuses on women’s health issues including gynecological concerns. Perimenopause is one of the conditions that falls under the acupunturist’s specialty. The symptoms of perimenopause mirror those of full-blown menopause (anxiety, depression, sleep disturbance, hot flashes, irregular menstrual cycles, changes in vaginal lubrication and elasticity), but occur in women in their forties and as well as some in their early to mid-thirties. While all of the symptoms that make up perimenopause can be irritating and inconvenient (picture being in bumper to bumper traffic when accosted by a raging hot flash), chronic insomnia has the potential to increase days missed at work and harm a woman’s ability to manage a busy home life.
According to White, “acupuncture treatment would be based on the individual’s patterns that are the reasons for the insomnia. “ White’s approach to treating the perimenopausal woman falls in line with her “head-to-toe” holistic approach. “Not all people have insomnia for the same reason, therefore, treatment is specific.” This suggests that not every perimenopausal woman is dealing with insomnia that has a hormonal base. A comprehensive evaluation makes it easier to pinpoint the cause of sleeplessness. Acupuncture, in turn, should make the disorder easier to eliminate.
The specific benefit that acupuncture provides to patients suffering from insomnia or any condition, while affirmed by practitioners like White, is not very clear to other medical professionals. A study on the use of acupuncture to treat insomnia in pregnant women appeared in Acupuncture in Medicine in 2005. While the results of the study showed that insomnia decreased by 50% in nine of the 17 women in the study group, the authors admit that few studies have been conducted on the effectiveness of acupuncture on insomnia.
The deficient research in the area of acupuncture in general is lagging behind the actual practice of this treatment. In a 2002 National Survey, 8.2 million adults in the United States admitted to undergoing acupuncture.
When asked why there are so few studies centered on her specialty, White is curt: “There is no money to be made by anyone in particular.”
Many of the acupuncture studies accessed for this article focused on patients in other countries such as Australia, Korea, and especially China. Studies on acupuncture, insomnia, and perimenopausal women were even harder to find. In some articles, the effect of acupuncture is buried under statistics about hot flashes and other symptoms associated with menopause. Maybe perimenopausal studies are as unprofitable as acupuncture research.
Ohayon’s article in the Archives of Internal Medicine discussed the association between hot flashes and insomnia. The study found that 81.3% of the women participants who reported severe hot flashes also complained of sleep disturbance (problems initiating and maintaining sleep; not feeling rested after awakening). These results paired with those of an unpublished case featured in a 2007 article in the BMC Contemporary and Alternative Medicine Journal in which acupuncture is credited for the reduction of hot flashes by 77% suggests a correlation between this alternative medicine and insomnia-suffering women experiencing symptoms of hormonal changes.
An article that directly examined the effectiveness of acupuncture in the treatment of insomnia appeared in Medical Acupuncture in 2002. The article cited a study showing that “100% of patients treated for insomnia [with acupuncture] obtained benefit without reoccurrence within 18 months of follow-up.”
While there is some evidence that acupuncture can positively impact sleep disorders, the American Academy of Sleep Medicine has reported that 25% of people suffering from insomnia use over-the-counter medications. These medications may be used several times a week. Other forms of self-medication for insomnia include herbal supplements such as melatonin and valerian. Prescription drugs range from barbiturates to antidepressants. There is the possibility of negative side effects in the use of any of these substances, including daytime drowsiness.
Side effects make the use of pharmaceuticals a less than attractive approach to coping with insomnia. With the trend towards organic foods and natural products, the modern perimenopausal woman may seek an alternative that will ease her symptoms and promote her general health.
When asked, White whimsically listed the “side effects” associated with acupuncture. “Feelings of well being, more energy, less pain, regular menstrual cycles, improved sleep.” Playfully she added, “Oh, you mean adverse side effects? Usually none.”
White does admit that some people may bruise from the needles, but they won’t have to drag themselves into work the day after an acupuncture treatment.
Limited research aside, the woman searching for relief from many of her perimenopausal symptoms including insomnia could benefit from the services of a licensed practitioner. White suggests choosing an acupuncturist who is also commissioned by the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM).
White’s last tip supports patient research by encouraging those seeking acupuncture treatment to make sure the potential practitioner “[has] some experience treating the problems the prospective patient is having.”
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
Writing Sample: Consumer Column
The Cost of Getting Out of Debt
March 30, 2008
Dealing with the Numbers
My credit card debt is twice that of the $9000 national average. My student loans…well let’s just say my $83,000 mortgage is considerably smaller. After hiding from my “numbers,” I realized that I needed a concrete plan to eliminate my debt and my fear of it.
Last month I took my first step out of fear and shame: I talked to a good friend about my debt. She turned me on to Dave Ramsey (http://www.daveramsey.com/). Ramsey has a radio show and financial counseling company that helps people eliminate debt. I borrowed Ramsey’s book, The Total Money Makeover, from my friend and got started.
During one of many discussions about debt management, my friend talked about purchasing other Ramsey products, some of which are over $300. I found this ironic.
“It’s funny,” I said during the phone call, “we’re trying to get out of debt, yet we’re being encouraged to spend more money.”
Debt elimination can be an expensive venture requiring research to determine the least financially daunting option.
Purchasing Financial Freedom
In a 2004 survey on consumer finances, the Federal Reserve Board revealed that over 46 percent of American families carry credit card balances. So, it is not surprising that many are seduced by the promises of financial self-help gurus.
Dave Ramsey, a survivor of massive debt, offers free information on his radio program and web site, including his signature “7 Baby Steps” principles; and he sales several products as well. The book I used to start my debt elimination program costs $14.95. Ramsey also offers a number of “kits”, such as The Financial Peace Home Study Plus that sales for $329.00. The latter is what my friend was considering. The parade of products appealed to her compulsive tendencies, a characteristic that many of us with heavy debt possess.
“The least expensive way [to get out of debt] is to knuckle down and make the decision to fix the mess…,” certified financial counselor Parker Thompson states. His company, Financial Focus, is located in Cumming, Georgia. “If it is a spending issue, fix it and cut back on spending.”
Consumers who get caught up in “the-call-to-buy” products like Ramsey’s may actually be sabotaging their efforts.
Credit Counseling, Debt Management and Consolidation
With the Federal Reserve Board projecting a 62 percent increase in outstanding credit card debt by 2010, Americans will find it harder to manage. As a result, many will seek assistance from agencies that focus on debt management and consolidation.
Consumer Credit Counseling Service of Greater Atlanta (CCCS) is a non-profit agency that “helped more than 400,000 Americans in 2007 and we project that approximately 600,000 Americans will utilize our services in 2008,” Scott Scredon, Director of Public Relations states.
Consumers are given recommendations on cutting expenses or increasing income and may enroll in the agencies debt management plan if their debt is too much to handle alone.
“Under this plan, we go to each creditor and establish a plan to pay off the person’s debt. The monthly payments from the individual vary based on the number of creditors involved, but the payments average $25 per month.”
While debt management programs such as CCCS of Greater Atlanta can be positive alternatives for debt reduction, they can also lead to negative marks on a consumer’s credit report depending on the policies of the companies that own the debt.
The preservation of credit scores and the promise of having all debt rolled into a single, low monthly payment often leads debtors to pursue consolidation loans. Thompson doesn’t recommend this route.
“Consolidation loans should be avoided. They do not change people’s behavior and they wind up in the same mess over and over.”
In addition to making it easier for consumers to continue with the behaviors that caused the trouble in the first place, consolidation loans may include unexpected fees, drain home equity, and expose consumers to expensive scams.
The Most Expensive Option
“The most expensive [plan for getting out of debt] is the bankruptcy option,” Thompson states. He is correct. In fact, this option has become more costly in recent years.
In October of 2005, a re-designed bankruptcy law went into effect. According to an article by Brigitte Yuille featured on Bankrate.com, “9 Bankruptcy Costs You Should Know About,” there has been a significant increase in filing fees: attorney ($6000 to $3500); mandatory credit counseling ($50 for pre and post filing sessions); and bankruptcy petition ($274-$299). Amendments to a petition increase the charges.
Even though bankruptcy negatively impacts credit for years, as Thompson recounts, some people prefer this option.
“One client still thinks it was the best thing he and his wife could have done. All their debt is gone and they are living in a brand new house, driving almost brand new cars. He does not want to talk about the double digit interest rates that he is paying on all three items.”
Doing It Yourself
My plan follows Ramsey’s: I have a budget, established a $1000 emergency fund, and embarked on a snowball plan paying off the smallest to largest balances. In the first six weeks I paid off one $1200 account and I am making a big dent in the balance that is next in line. I deviate slightly by saving $250 a month and paying into my Roth IRA with automatic transfers.
The process is slow, but it has changed my behavior. Most importantly, my plan doesn’t fund the lavish lifestyles of bankruptcy attorneys or financial gurus.
Helpful Web sites
Budget Templates:
Monthly
http://office.microsoft.com/en-us/templates/TC010233411033.aspx
Bi-weekly
http://office.microsoft.com/en-us/templates/TC300007261033.aspx?CategoryID=CT101172321033
Libraries
Libcat
http://www.librarysites.info/ (Get a library card and access the financial gurus’ expertise for free!)
Calculators
Debt repayment http://www.bankrate.com/brm/calc/creditcardpay.asp
Snowball plan http://www.whatsthecost.com/snowball.aspx?country=us
Debt Elimination Seminar
Motley Fool’s How to Get Out of Debt Guide
http://www.whatsthecost.com/snowball.aspx?country=us
Blogs
Debt Kid http://www.debtkid.com/
We’re In Debt http://wereindebt.com/
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March 30, 2008
Dealing with the Numbers
My credit card debt is twice that of the $9000 national average. My student loans…well let’s just say my $83,000 mortgage is considerably smaller. After hiding from my “numbers,” I realized that I needed a concrete plan to eliminate my debt and my fear of it.
Last month I took my first step out of fear and shame: I talked to a good friend about my debt. She turned me on to Dave Ramsey (http://www.daveramsey.com/). Ramsey has a radio show and financial counseling company that helps people eliminate debt. I borrowed Ramsey’s book, The Total Money Makeover, from my friend and got started.
During one of many discussions about debt management, my friend talked about purchasing other Ramsey products, some of which are over $300. I found this ironic.
“It’s funny,” I said during the phone call, “we’re trying to get out of debt, yet we’re being encouraged to spend more money.”
Debt elimination can be an expensive venture requiring research to determine the least financially daunting option.
Purchasing Financial Freedom
In a 2004 survey on consumer finances, the Federal Reserve Board revealed that over 46 percent of American families carry credit card balances. So, it is not surprising that many are seduced by the promises of financial self-help gurus.
Dave Ramsey, a survivor of massive debt, offers free information on his radio program and web site, including his signature “7 Baby Steps” principles; and he sales several products as well. The book I used to start my debt elimination program costs $14.95. Ramsey also offers a number of “kits”, such as The Financial Peace Home Study Plus that sales for $329.00. The latter is what my friend was considering. The parade of products appealed to her compulsive tendencies, a characteristic that many of us with heavy debt possess.
“The least expensive way [to get out of debt] is to knuckle down and make the decision to fix the mess…,” certified financial counselor Parker Thompson states. His company, Financial Focus, is located in Cumming, Georgia. “If it is a spending issue, fix it and cut back on spending.”
Consumers who get caught up in “the-call-to-buy” products like Ramsey’s may actually be sabotaging their efforts.
Credit Counseling, Debt Management and Consolidation
With the Federal Reserve Board projecting a 62 percent increase in outstanding credit card debt by 2010, Americans will find it harder to manage. As a result, many will seek assistance from agencies that focus on debt management and consolidation.
Consumer Credit Counseling Service of Greater Atlanta (CCCS) is a non-profit agency that “helped more than 400,000 Americans in 2007 and we project that approximately 600,000 Americans will utilize our services in 2008,” Scott Scredon, Director of Public Relations states.
Consumers are given recommendations on cutting expenses or increasing income and may enroll in the agencies debt management plan if their debt is too much to handle alone.
“Under this plan, we go to each creditor and establish a plan to pay off the person’s debt. The monthly payments from the individual vary based on the number of creditors involved, but the payments average $25 per month.”
While debt management programs such as CCCS of Greater Atlanta can be positive alternatives for debt reduction, they can also lead to negative marks on a consumer’s credit report depending on the policies of the companies that own the debt.
The preservation of credit scores and the promise of having all debt rolled into a single, low monthly payment often leads debtors to pursue consolidation loans. Thompson doesn’t recommend this route.
“Consolidation loans should be avoided. They do not change people’s behavior and they wind up in the same mess over and over.”
In addition to making it easier for consumers to continue with the behaviors that caused the trouble in the first place, consolidation loans may include unexpected fees, drain home equity, and expose consumers to expensive scams.
The Most Expensive Option
“The most expensive [plan for getting out of debt] is the bankruptcy option,” Thompson states. He is correct. In fact, this option has become more costly in recent years.
In October of 2005, a re-designed bankruptcy law went into effect. According to an article by Brigitte Yuille featured on Bankrate.com, “9 Bankruptcy Costs You Should Know About,” there has been a significant increase in filing fees: attorney ($6000 to $3500); mandatory credit counseling ($50 for pre and post filing sessions); and bankruptcy petition ($274-$299). Amendments to a petition increase the charges.
Even though bankruptcy negatively impacts credit for years, as Thompson recounts, some people prefer this option.
“One client still thinks it was the best thing he and his wife could have done. All their debt is gone and they are living in a brand new house, driving almost brand new cars. He does not want to talk about the double digit interest rates that he is paying on all three items.”
Doing It Yourself
My plan follows Ramsey’s: I have a budget, established a $1000 emergency fund, and embarked on a snowball plan paying off the smallest to largest balances. In the first six weeks I paid off one $1200 account and I am making a big dent in the balance that is next in line. I deviate slightly by saving $250 a month and paying into my Roth IRA with automatic transfers.
The process is slow, but it has changed my behavior. Most importantly, my plan doesn’t fund the lavish lifestyles of bankruptcy attorneys or financial gurus.
Helpful Web sites
Budget Templates:
Monthly
http://office.microsoft.com/en-us/templates/TC010233411033.aspx
Bi-weekly
http://office.microsoft.com/en-us/templates/TC300007261033.aspx?CategoryID=CT101172321033
Libraries
Libcat
http://www.librarysites.info/ (Get a library card and access the financial gurus’ expertise for free!)
Calculators
Debt repayment http://www.bankrate.com/brm/calc/creditcardpay.asp
Snowball plan http://www.whatsthecost.com/snowball.aspx?country=us
Debt Elimination Seminar
Motley Fool’s How to Get Out of Debt Guide
http://www.whatsthecost.com/snowball.aspx?country=us
Blogs
Debt Kid http://www.debtkid.com/
We’re In Debt http://wereindebt.com/
Free Money Finance http://wereindebt.com/
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